If your garage looks more like a storage shed than a space to park your car, you’re not alone. Many homeowners find their garages overflowing with seasonal decorations, tools, sporting equipment, and items they “might need someday.” While the idea of decluttering your garage sounds appealing, the actual process can feel overwhelming; especially when you don’t have a clear plan for what to do with everything.
That’s where a self-storage unit can make all the difference.
In this article, we’ll explore why using a storage unit isn’t just a short-term fix; it’s a long-term storage solution that can transform your home and your life. Whether you're considering climate-controlled storage, drive-up storage, or enclosed storage, this guide covers all your options.
Why the Garage Is a Clutter Magnet
Your garage is prime real estate in your home. Unfortunately, it's also the most common dumping ground. Here’s why:
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Unlike living spaces, the garage doesn’t have to be clean for guests.
No Clear Storage Zones
Items of all kinds, tools, bikes, and holiday lights get mixed.
Seasonal Overlap
Snowblowers in summer, kayaks in winter. It adds up.
This clutter not only reduces usable space but can also pose safety risks and create stress.
5 Common Reasons People Declutter Their Garage
Making room for a vehicle
Prepping for a home renovation
Converting the garage into a gym or workspace
Selling the home
Wanting a cleaner, more functional home
No matter your motivation, renting a storage unit can help you declutter quickly and efficiently.
How a Storage Unit Can Help
Using a storage unit gives you the flexibility to reclaim your garage without making hard decisions about what to keep or toss. Here’s how:
Challenge | Solution via Storage Unit |
Limited space at home | Additional square footage off-site |
Seasonal items everywhere | Store summer/winter gear out of season |
Emotional attachment to stuff | Take time to decide without pressure |
Home renovations | Temporary, secure storage during transitions |
Types of Storage Units to Consider
Not all storage units are created equal. Depending on what you're storing, you’ll want to choose the right type for your needs.
1. Drive-Up Storage
Perfect for heavy items like furniture, large boxes, or equipment. Just back your vehicle up and unload with ease.
Great For
Tools, lawnmowers, sports gear
Pro
Convenience
Con
Not climate protected
2. Climate Controlled Storage
Ideal for items that are sensitive to temperature or humidity.
Great For
Photos, electronics, antiques, musical instruments
Pro
Maintains temperature & humidity
Con
Slightly higher cost
3. Enclosed Storage
Enclosed storage provides secure, indoor options for your items, protected from weather and theft.
Great For
Personal or business storage
Pro
Extra security
Con
May require hallway transport
What Should You Store in a Unit?
Here are some garage items perfect for off-site storage:
Seasonal decorations
Camping gear
Sports equipment
Tools used infrequently
Paint cans (check with the facility for restrictions)
Bicycles or scooters
Backup household items (chairs, tables, etc.)
Avoid storing flammable or perishable items unless explicitly allowed.
Storage and Life Transitions
Decluttering the garage often happens during life changes. A self-storage unit can make those transitions smoother.
Moving or Downsizing?
Garage clutter becomes overwhelming when trying to sell or move. Storage provides a space to keep items while showing the home or staging your move.
Growing Family?
More people mean more stuff. Store items not immediately needed—like baby gear, hand-me-downs, or seasonal toys in a residential storage space.
College?
Kids move out… and then move back in. Keep their things safe and organized without sacrificing your own garage space.
Divorce or Separation?
Emotional transitions are hard enough. A secure storage solution offers privacy and peace of mind for storing items while decisions are made.
Boat, RV, and Vehicle Storage for Extra Garage Space
Garages often get clogged with oversized vehicles or trailers. That’s where RV storage, boat storage, and vehicle storage come in.
Boat Storage
Free up your driveway and protect your boat from weather damage.
RV Storage
Keep your adventure rig secure in the off-season.
Enclosed Vehicle Storage
Ideal for classic cars or off-season vehicles.
Storing these large items off-site is a great way to declutter your garage instantly.
The Mental Health Benefits of Decluttering
Studies show that clutter can increase stress and reduce productivity. In fact, researchers at UCLA’s Center on Everyday Lives of Families found that people living in cluttered spaces have higher levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
A clean, organized garage = mental clarity and emotional calm.
When your garage is tidy, you’re more likely to:
Exercise more (hello, garage gym)
Work on home projects
Avoid buying duplicates
Reduce the feeling of being “behind” in life
A self-storage unit doesn’t just create physical space—it creates mental space.
How to Choose the Right Storage Facility
When choosing a storage facility, consider the following:
Location
Choose a location that's convenient but not too close, so you won’t be tempted to treat it as extra garage space.
Security
Look for facilities with:
Gated access
Cameras
On-site staff
Individual unit locks
Variety of Unit Sizes
Not everyone needs a massive unit. The best storage facilities offer multiple sizes so you don’t overpay.
Climate Control (Optional)
If you’re storing delicate or high-value items, climate control is worth it.
Online Account Access
Facilities like Premier Storage make it easy to manage your account online, so you can pay your bill or upgrade your unit without needing to call.
Garage Decluttering Tips Before You Store
Before you start moving items into your unit, take time to:
Sort
Group items by category (sports, tools, holiday, etc.)
Label
Use clear bins with labels for easy retrieval
Purge
Donate or toss broken or unused items
Inventory
Create a digital or paper list of what’s going on in storage
Stack Smart
Place heavier items on the bottom
Tip
Create a “grab first” bin with essentials in case you need them unexpectedly.
When NOT to Use a Storage Unit
Storage is handy, but not for:
Hazardous materials (gasoline, fireworks, etc.)
Perishables (food, plants, animals)
Illegal items
Always check the facility’s guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does A Storage Unit Cost?
It depends on location, size, and features like climate control. The good news? It’s often cheaper than expanding your home or building a shed.
Can I Access My Stuff Easily?
Yes. Most storage spaces offer convenient access hours (not necessarily 24/7) and drive-up options for ease.
Is It Safe To Store Valuable Items?
Yes, especially in secure storage facilities with cameras, gated entry, and locks. For valuable items, choose indoor or climate-controlled storage.
A Cleaner Garage Starts With Smart Storage
Your garage shouldn’t be a catch-all space that causes stress and confusion. Whether you’re dealing with a move, a growing family, or just need more breathing room, renting a self-storage unit from Premier Storage can make decluttering faster, easier, and more effective.
Reclaim Your Space Today with Premier Storage
A clean garage isn't just lovely to look at; it's an investment in your home, your time, and your peace of mind. At Premier Storage, we make it simple to find the proper storage solution for your needs. From climate-controlled storage to boat and RV storage, we’ve got a unit waiting for you.
Ready to clear the clutter? Explore our available storage units now and get started today.
